The main goal of this research is to further our understanding on the dynamics of straits and their role in determining the dynamic characteristics of the basins they interconnect. In particular the Straits of Gibraltar and Sicily have a profound effect on the way the Mediterranean Sea responds to tidal and atmospheric forcings, quantifying and understanding the fluxes and structure of the flows through both Straits will permit us to model them correctly in future studies. The specific objectives of this research effort are: (a) Obtain long term (>two year) measurements of fluxes through the Strait of Gibraltar, (b) determine if the hydraulically controlled exchange at Gibraltar is always maximal, or switches at times to a submaximal showing evidence of a seasonal cycle in the exchange, (c) determine if the PTC and/or sea surface gauge array can be used for long term monitoring of the surface flow through both straits, and (d) investigate the relation between the barotropic and baroclinic exchanges through the Straits of Gibraltar and Sicily and their effect on the circulation of the Mediterranean Sea.

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